Bovine Tuberculosis Among Herdsmen, North Tongu District, Volta Region, Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: Human Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease of man caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) complex. The rate of decline in incidence of the disease is low due to the emergence of Multi-Drug Resistance tuberculosis (MDR-TB). The numerical contribution of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) to the general tuberculosis burden is unknown. Herdsmen, livestock workers, and veterinarians are at high risk of contracting BTB. There are information about BTB infection in cattle and human in Ghana but zoonotic transmission is yet to be established. The aim of this study is to determine the burden of BTB among herdsmen and cattle in the North Tongu district of the Volta Region to enhance prevention and control of the disease. Method: A cross- sectional study was conducted in the North Tongu District of the Volta Region between the period of October 2011- March 2012. Sputum samples from 68 herdsmen and blood samples from 200 cattle belonging to these herdsmen were collected. Sputum samples were analyzed using Ziehl- Neelsen staining for TB. Cattle blood samples were tested for BTB using Anigen Rapid BTB Test. A structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic information and possible risk factor information on cattle from participants. Results: A total of 200 cattle consisting of 14 bulls and 186 cows were selected for the study. The prevalence of bovine TB was 19% (38/200) and those affected were all females. Eighty-four percent (164/195) cattle were routinely treated with antibiotics. The median age group of respondents was 31-40years. All (100%) human sample tested negative for Acid- Fast Baccilli (AFB). Ninety percent (61/68) of respondents consume fresh milk and 84% (57/68) do not use protective clothing. Seropositivity of cattle and kraal density were statistically associated (p= 0.001). Conclusion and Recommendations: Bovine TB is prevalent in cattle in North Tongu district. Although herdsmen indulge in risky lifestyles that expose them to BTB, we found a zero prevalence of BTB among them. The study should be replicated using a larger sample size in the two populations. Milk from cattle in the area should be tested for M. bovis.